The Ultimate Osaka Guide 2020; What to Do and What to Eat

People come to Osaka for the food, and there is a very good reason for that. In this section we’ll give you the scoop on the best food districts, hottest restaurants, and trendiest cafés, so that you can become an expert of Osaka cuisine.

Start your journey in Osaka off right, with one of its local specialties at local’s favorite dining.

Tsutenkaku

Kushikatsu is a dish of deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers, and it’s usually served with a sauce. The taste varies from restaurant to restaurant, but you can expect it to taste slightly sweet. This dish is believed to have originated in Shinsekai as food for day laborers working to rebuild Osaka after the war. You’ll find many small Izakayas serving Kushikatsu so be sure to walk around and compare.

Read more
Working Class Hero: Osaka’s Kushikatsu
A working man’s classic from the bone hard streets of Japan’s second city, …

Kushikatsu

Once you’re reasonably full be sure to check out Tsutenkaku, nicknamed the ‘Eiffel Tower of Osaka’, it is an iconic structure that was reconstructed following World War II. It’s become a symbol of the city and is magnificently illuminated at night, with an observatory on the 5th floor.

Tsutenkaku

Tsutenkaku

3.5

1839 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Naniwa-ku Ebisuhigashi 1-18-6

0666419555

[General observatory] 10:00-…

View All

Go here

Hozenji Yokocho Alley

Hozenji Yokocho Alley near Hozenji Temple is a classic, cobblestone lane that’s filled with popular drinking and dining places. Many serve Osaka's iconic foods, such as Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, and Kushikatsu. The alleyway glows enchantingly in the dark with its lanterns and shop signs, making it even more inviting.

Hozenji

Many tourists visit the Hozenji temple which gives the alley its name and is another great example of Osaka’s softer, historical side. The temple features a statue of Fudomyoo, which survived the bombing raids of the second World War. It is said that pouring water over this Buddhist statue and making a wish will make your wish come true! As a result, the statue is covered with thick, green moss from head to toe.

Hozenji Yokocho Alley

Osaka Osakashi Chuou-ku Namba Near 1

View All

Go here

Kuromon Ichiba Market

Osaka is widely considered the culinary capital of Japan and the Kuromon Ichiba Market is one of the best places to get a taste of Yakitori, grilled scallops, Oden, and even some of the most expensive fruit you’ve ever seen. Nicknamed ‘Osaka’s Kitchen’, this covered shopping street stretches for around 600 meters and is lined with stalls selling fresh produce, gourmet specialties and incredibly fresh seafood. Join the local chefs while sampling some of the best ingredients available in Osaka.

Kuromon Ichiba Market

Read more

A Tasty Detour to the Kuromon Ichiba Market
Osaka has a reputation throughout Japan for many things, but it’s maybe most famous for its food. Osaka, ‘the kitchen of Japan’…

Kuromon Ichiba Market

4.0

3256 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Chuou-ku Nippombashi 2-4-1

0666310007

Each Depends on establishmen…

View All

Go here

Tsuruhashi

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy Yakiniku, a delicious do-it yourself grilled meat experience, at one of the numerous Korean BBQ restaurants in Tsuruhashi. It is the largest Korean neighborhood in Japan and centers around a covered shopping arcade that's lined with Korean eateries and stores. Many Koreans migrated here during the early 20th century Japanese occupation of Korea and set up a miniature version of their home.

Tsuruhashi

Tsuruhashi

Osaka

View All

Go here

Osaka’s local-specialites are called ‘Konamon’, meaning ‘snack made from wheat flour’. Here is a guide for your snack choices, local people’s favorite ‘Konamon’ and curry restaurant.

Takoyaki of Namba

The lively entertainment district of Namba has gained a reputation for its shops specializing in takoyaki (octopus filled balls). It’s a great place to sample a variety of takoyaki and compare the different options while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. One of the most popular stores is Wanaka that’s been in business for more than half a century and dishes up incredible takoyaki.

Takoyaki of Namba

わなか なんば店

大阪府大阪市中央区難波3-7-24

0666315920

View All

local Negiyaki

While Okonomiyaki, a type of savory Japanese pancake, is relatively well known, its thinner version, Negiyaki, isn’t so widely eaten. But as Osaka is considered the birthplace of the dish, there’s no better opportunity to try it. Okonomiyaki restaurant Fukutaro is an Osaka institution that’s renowned for its Negiyaki. Featuring a batter made from flour, grated nagaimo (yam), eggs and shredded cabbage, their Negiyaki also incorporates a lot of its namesake: Negi, known as scallions or green onion in English.

local Negiyaki

Read more
Kansai Soul Food: Okonomiyaki in Osaka
Okonomiyaki, the pancake of yam flour, bacon, cabbage, and… well, anything else…

Fukutaro

4.5

284 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Chuou-ku Sennichimae 2-3-17

0666342951

[Weekday]17:00-24:30(L.O.23:…

View All

Go here

Warung

Still hungry? If you would like to try something a little different, we have a great recommendation for you. Spice curry is taking Osaka by storm, with countless restaurants inspired by this classic Southeast Asian dish. Aside from Nepalese, Sri Lankan and Indian style curries, you can also find a unique spice blend that originated in Osaka.

Warung

Curry&Cafe Warung

1.0

1 Reviews

Osaka Osaka-shi Nishi-ku Kitahorie 3-4-17 Life Labo Bld 1F

0666169712

View All

Go here

Osaka also has various kinds of café. Here is the most updated Osaka café information. Hop and find your favorite café.

Pokemon Café Osaka

Fans of this classic video game and anime series can rejoice as Osaka gets it’s very own Pokemon Café! Opened in September 2019, this is a brand-new dining experience. It has a surprisingly modern and organic feel which is complemented by the cuteness of the figurines around the room and the elaborate designs of the various dishes. Catch your favorite Pokemon on a custom latte or with your favorite food. Even if you’re not a fan we still highly recommend this unique café.

Pokemon Café Osaka

Reservation ： https://www.pokemoncenter-online.com/cafe/reservation.html

Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store

Osaka Osakashi Chuou-ku Shinsaibashisuji 1-7-1

0662711231

10:00-20:00[Restaurant Floor…

View All

Go here

Riverside café

At the heart of the city lies the small island of Nakanoshima, which is surrounded by an extensive waterfront area and home to some of the trendiest cafes in Osaka. After a stroll through scenic Nakanoshima Park, grab a spot on one of the cafe terraces overlooking the river to watch the world go by. Many of the restaurants and cafes in this area also offer a take-out menu so if it’s a beautiful day feel free to grab some food and have a picnic in the park.

Riverside café

Read more
Osaka’s Nakanoshima District
Osaka is known as ‘the city of water’, thanks to the network of rivers and streams that cut through the city. In the heart of the city, …

Nakanoshima(Osaka)

Osaka

View All

Go here

Mel Coffee Roasters

A short walk from Shinsaibashi Station is the newly-trendy district of Horie, which is home to some of Osaka’s best specialty coffee shops. With freshly roasted beans, personalized service and an oasis of calm, there’s no better place to get your caffeine fix. Head to Mel Coffee Roasters or try Downstairs Coffee that’s owned by a previous winner of the Latte Art World Championship. Once you’re reasonably caffeinated check out Tachibana, or Orange Street, for a glimpse of authentically Japanese custom furniture and other small shops.

Mel Coffee Roasters

Mel Coffee Roasters

Osaka Osaka-shi Nishi-ku Shinmachi 1-20-4

0643948177

View All

Go here

JTRRD café

A five-minute walk from Temmabashi Station takes you to the JTRRD cafe that’s making a name for its smoothie artistry. Simply select your favorite color or image and their staff will create a one of a kind smoothie that you won’t be able to resist photographing. These kinds of drinks are all the rage with the youth of Japan so here is a good chance to join in on the fun. The store also has a small selection of handmade ornaments and clothing for sale.

JTRRD café

JTRRDcafe

Osaka Osaka-shi Kita-ku

0668824835

View All

Go here

Osaka is also a historically significant city with a long and colorful past. Ancient temples, extravagant festivals, and World Heritage Sites are all waiting to be explored.

Temples and shrines often have their original Omikuji (fortune slips) and Omamori (lucky charms) with their logo-marks. Be sure to take home these Omamori and the Omikuji, but only the slips the ones divine bright future!

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is an amazing place to visit if you're looking for spiritual solace and a break from the bustling city. There are a number of Tenmagu shrines in Japan but this one is by far the most famous. Home to the deity of scholarship known as Sugawara Michizane, this shrine attracts many students hoping to get a little boost for their exams and studies.

From mid-February to early March, 100 plum trees bloom and decorate the compound with pink petals. The biggest event at the shrine is the Tenjin Matsuri festival.

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Osaka Temmangu Shrine

4.0

377 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Kita-ku Tenjimbashi 2-1-8

0663530025

[Prayer] 9:00-17:00 (Last en…

View All

Go here

Shitennoji Temple

Commissioned by the legendary Prince Shotoku, Shitennoji Temple is located in the heart of the city’s Tennoji Ward. While its impressive Gokurakumon and pagoda are highlights of the complex, it’s the resident turtles in the temple pond that will really make you smile. Once pets, they were abandoned here to lazily spend their days swimming and basking in the sunshine. This is one of Japan’s oldest temples so while you’re there be sure to check out its long history. Don’t forget to buy a charm for good luck on your way out!

Shitennoji Temple

Read more
A Golden Pavilion for a Faithful Prince: Shitennoji Temple
Although the years have been hard on Shitennoji and few of the early structures stand to this day, …

Shitennoji Temple

Osaka Osaka-shi Tennoji-ku Shitennoji 1-chome

View All

Go here

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Fronted by an immense lion, the Namba Yaska Shrine is part of what was once a flourishing Buddhist temple complex. It’s believed that the lion’s mouth swallows evil spirits and brings devotees good luck, particularly in studies and business. Visit during the annual festival in January when a huge tug of war competition is held.

Namba Yasaka Shrine

Nanba Yasaka-jinja Shrine

4.0

280 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Naniwa-ku Motomachi 2-9-19

0666411149

9:00-17:00

View All

Go here

Osaka’s unique festivals and events take place mainly in summer. Each festival has a long history and you will be surely touched by the living history in modern people’s life.

Whenever you hear the word Odori mentioned in reference to a festival that means this is going to be a dance event. The Tenjin Tenma Awa Odori is no exception, a bright showing of traditional costumes, dancing and music, it’s not to be missed.

Tenjin Matsuri

One of the top three festivals in Japan, it is a spectacular display of the Shinto Faith at its most elaborate. This is the festival of the Tenmagu Shrine and its deity that we mentioned above. The deity, Sugawara Michizane, will be invited out of the temple and paraded through the streets of Osaka. The land procession features costumed characters of Japanese legend, Lion Dancer’s, Floats, and more.

Taking place at the Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, whose gods defend Japan and protect sea voyages, this festival is extremely culturally significant. Women and children donning Muromachi period costume will walk through a straw ring to exorcise evil spirits. Witnessing this, it’s easy to feel that you’ve been transported to the past.

Osaka has been the economic center of western Japan for centuries. From the past to the future, feel the vibrant vibes of this historical city visiting the sights and museums.

Osaka Castle views from Miraiza

Dating back to the 16th century, Osaka Castle is undoubtedly one of the city's most famous sights and dominated by its eye-catching tower. While the top floor of the castle offers sweeping views across the castle grounds and the city beyond, you can get spectacular views of the castle itself from the terrace of the Miraiza shopping mall or the first floor of The Konamon Bar Rikyu. See if you can spot the Shachi, a legendary fish that was believed to protect from fire, on the roof.

Osaka Castle views from Miraiza

Read more
Osaka Castle and the Surrounding Area
South of the Yodo River, Osaka Castle sits in an oasis of greenery in the center of the city. Originally constructed in the 16th century, …

Mozu Furuichi Kofungun

On terraced land overlooking Osaka Bay are a number of keyhole shaped tombs known as Mozu Furuichi Kofungun. They’re the largest Kofun, a kind of tomb made of earth with the burial chamber in the mound, in the country and are believed to date from the late 4th to early 6th centuries. Visitors can walk or cycle around the site while gaining an insight into the history of the Kofun and their consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and take in the natural beauty of the area.

百舌鳥古墳群

大阪府堺市・羽曳野市・藤井寺市他

0662109742

View All

Go here

Nakazakicho District

Take a step back in time while strolling the streets of Nakazakicho, a traditional district that’s home to old shop façades from the Showa era. Having escaped the modern developments that have shaped much of Osaka, it’s become one of the city’s most fashionable areas for those in the know, with many of its beautiful old buildings transformed into unique boutiques and eclectic cafes.

Nakazakicho District

Read more
Nakazakicho District in Osaka
The north of Osaka is often considered the more sophisticated end of the city, with Umeda being a modern hub of high-rise buildings,…

Nakazakicho

Osaka

View All

Go here

Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Osaka has a number of authentic historical sites, however the only place to truly encounter an Edo period street is the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living. The past has been recreated with a number of buildings that you can explore, and Kimono rental is also available so that you can get the full historical experience. Once you’ve browsed the street to your hearts content head over to the other exhibits where you can see Osaka’s development into the modern behemoth it is today.

The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

4.0

838 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Kita-ku Tenjimbashi 6-4-20 Housing Information Center Building 8F

0662421170

10:00-17:00 (Last entry unti…

View All

Go here

Tower of the Sun by Taro Okamoto

Established on the site of the Japan World Exposition 1970, the Expo’70 Commemorative Park features landscaped gardens and the Japan Folk Crafts Museum. But it’s the striking Tower of the Sun by late artist Taro Okamoto that has become its symbol, soaring 70 meters in height. Once closed, visitors can now enter the tower to experience the world of Okamoto, although you must reserve a place one day ahead.

Tower of the Sun by Taro Okamoto

https://taiyounotou-expo70.jp/

Tower of the Sun by Taro Okamoto

Tower of the Sun

Osaka Met. Suitashi Senri Banpaku Park 1-1 In the Banpaku Park

0120197089

10:00-17:00(Last entry16:30)…

View All

Go here

Get Eco Card by subway vending machine

A great way to save money on travel and attractions is to purchase an Eco card from the Osaka Metro Station Building. It costs only 300 yen for children and 800 yen for adults (600 on weekends and holidays) and allows unlimited access to the Osaka Subway, the New Tram, and municipal bus lines. Another exciting feature of the Eco card is the discounts it provides to 30 of Osaka’s most popular attractions, such as historic Osaka Castle. You can purchase it from any of the stores and kiosks in the Osaka Metro Station Building.

Shin-osaka

Osaka

View All

Go here

The variety of entertainment in Osaka is truly staggering. But don’t worry we’ve got you covered with the best theme parks (including Universal Studios Japan, of course), adventures, and sights that the city has to offer.

If kids want some thrilling adventures, Osaka provides you these options, too! Even the grown-ups can’t miss the USJ (Universal Studio Japan) and amusement parks.

USJ

No trip to Osaka would be complete without a visit to Universal Studios Japan, which is packed with themed rides and movie inspired attractions. Only in this particular Universal Studios can you watch a unique musical show based on the movie ‘SING’ called ‘SING ON TOUR’. Check it out in the fun and adorable Minion Park. While here make sure you don’t miss fan-favorites ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey’ or the ‘Despicable Me Minion Mayhem’.

Universal Studios Japan

4.0

10821 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Konohana-ku Sakurajima 2-1-33

0570200606

Depends on Sunday

View All

Go here

Universal Studios Japan Osaka Studio Pass E-Tickets

¥18,600

Update date：2023/08/15

Hirakata Park

Hirakata Park (also known as Hirapah) is family-friendly amusement park just three minutes’ walk from Hirakata Koen Station. It’s filled with a wide range of rides and attractions. Thrill-seekers should check out the Red Falcon rollercoaster, while those that prefer a gentler experience can go on Elf - it’s an increasingly rare wooden rollercoaster. As an added bonus Hirapah is more economical compared to Universal Studios Japan or Tokyo Disneyland.

Hirakata Park

Osaka Hirakatashi Hirakatakouenchou 1-1

0570016855

10:00-17:00 *Varies dependin…

View All

Go here

Expocity

Expocity is a large entertainment complex that comprises eight facilities, including an IMAX movie theatre, amusement parks and a shopping mall. The complex also boasts Japan's tallest Ferris wheel, the Redhorse Osaka Wheel, which features see-through gondolas that allow passengers to capture great views of the city. Not to be missed are the Japanese Garden and Nifrel, a ‘living’ museum where visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with wild and marine animals in seven different artistic zones.

Expocity

EXPOCITY

4.0

501 Reviews

Osaka Suitashi Senribampakukouen 2-1

0661705590

Facility/Depends on facility

View All

Go here

Tokyo is famous for its sky-scrapers but so has Osaka. Visit these sky-scrapers and challenge for the breath-taking views.

HEP Five

Another place to get a bird’s eye view of the city is from the bright red Ferris wheel on the roof of HEP Five, a fashionable new shopping complex. For 600 yen you can take a 15-minute air-conditioned journey 106 meters above the ground.

HEP Five

There is also a legend that if you get on the Ferris wheel with someone you're not in a relationship with, one, you'll become a couple, and two, kissing on the ride will make your relationship last. I'm not one for legends, but it doesn't hurt your chances.

HEP FIVE

Osaka Osakashi Kita-ku Kakudachou 5-15

0663130501

[Shopping] 11:00-21:00 [Res…

View All

Go here

Abeno Harukas

Ever wanted to walk on the edge of a 300-meter-high cliff? Then brave the Edge the Harukas where you can experience the same thrill while being harnessed to a safety rail. Participants walk along a narrow deck atop the 300-meter-tall building of Abeno Harukas while leaning out over the edge.

Edge the Harukas

Entry also includes access to the 16th floor observation deck for sweeping views across the city and a free photo (you can’t bring your own camera for safety reasons).

Abeno Harukas

Abeno Harkus

Osaka Osakashi Abeno-ku Abenosuji 1-1-43

0666210300

[Harukas 300 (Observatory)] …

View All

Go here

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of Osaka? Head to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and picturesque Minoo Park.

Kaiyukan

Situated on the waterfront of Osaka Bay, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (海遊館) is a world-class aquarium showcasing 30,000 sea creatures from around 620 different species. At this eight-story aquarium, visitors can begin on the 8th floor and gradually meander down while viewing marine animals such as sea lions and sea turtles. The main attraction is definitely the whale sharks, stare in awe at these gentle giants as they gracefully swim past you.

Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)

4.5

6677 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Minato-ku Kaigandori 1-1-10

0665765501

10:00-20:00 (admission until…

View All

Go here

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan E-Tickets in Japan

¥2,550

Update date：2023/08/15

Minoo Park

Minoo Park is crisscrossed by hiking trails where you can enjoy the clean air and see a 33-meter-high waterfall, with traditional buildings and bridges creating a peaceful ambience.

Katsuoji

A highlight of the park is the 1,200-year-old Buddhist temple of Katsuoji that’s renowned for its hundreds of Daruma dolls, which are viewed as symbols of good luck and perseverance. If you decide to purchase one for yourself note the blank eyes, you make a goal or wish and paint in one eye, and once your wish comes true you fill in the other one!

Katsuoji

Read more
A Day in Minoo Park
Osaka is a vibrant city full of amazing food and is known for its exciting nightlife. Sometimes, …

Minoo

Osaka

View All

Go here

Looking for some entertainment before or after your meal? No worries! You can sing Karaoke or watch a popular Japanese comedy show all in the same building.

Umeda Sky Building's

At 170 meters above the streets below, the Umeda Sky Building’s Kuchu Teien Observatory offers unforgettable views across the city of Osaka. The rooftop, called the Sky Garden, offers a beautiful, 360-degree panorama view of the city and surrounding area.

Umeda Sky Building's

To properly enjoy the twinkling city lights at night, with cocktails and fine dining, you can head down to the 39th floor where there is a restaurant whimsically named Stardust. It’s popular, so it might be a good idea to make a reservation in advance.

Umeda Sky Building's

Umeda Sky Building's

Umeda Sky Building

Osaka Osakashi Kita-ku Oyodonaka 1-1-88

0664403899

[Kuchu Teien Observatory] 9:…

View All

Go here

Ura-Tenma's Chochin-dori

In Temmabashi you can find Chochin-dori, an arcade that’s clustered with restaurants and beautifully illuminated by hundreds of Chochin lanterns. It’s definitely an Instagram moment as you walk beneath these traditional lanterns while exploring the various Izakayas and drinking places, with the lively atmosphere making it ideal for bar hopping at night.

Ura-Tenma's Chochin-dori

Ura-Tenma's Chochin-dori

uratenman chouchindori niku Sushi

5.0

5 Reviews

Osaka Osaka-shi Kita-ku Ikedacho 8-5

0663543312

View All

Go here

Dotonbori

Dotonbori is well-known for its bright lights, variety of restaurants and bars, and a clown mascot named Kuidaore Taro. But who is he? He originated as the mascot of the restaurant, Cui-Daoré. Opened in 1949 the concept was ‘eat until you go bankrupt’.

Dotonbori

Though the original restaurant has unfortunately closed you’ll find him standing in the lobby of the Nakazawa Kuidaore Building, which has a similar philosophy. Within, you will find some Osaka staples such as Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, and Yakisoba.

Dotonbori

Dotonbori

Osaka Osakashi Chuou-ku Doutombori

0662114542

Store/Depending on the facil…

View All

Go here

Ura-Namba

Ura-Namba, a realm of narrow streets, is hidden at the back of Osaka’s bustling Namba district. Packed with Izakaya’s, restaurants, and other drinking establishments, everything from Sashimi to Tapas is on offer.

You can indulge with classics like Sake and Umeshu, but also try some modern offerings such as Japanese beer or whisky. Don’t miss the 1970s Misoni Building that features a retro atmosphere and is home to plenty of underground bars.

Ura-Namba

No.B

大阪府大阪市中央区千日前2-3-9 味園ビル

06-6643-1398

View All

Ramen, Japanese Whisky…these are Japan’s modern food culture that overwhelm the world and you can learn the part of their secret ingredient in Osaka!

Cup Noodle Museum

Don’t miss a visit to the Momofuku Ando Cup Noodle Museum, which celebrates Osaka as the birthplace of instant noodles. Learn about the history of cup noodles and the creator of instant ramen, Momofuku Ando. But the museum’s biggest attraction is the My Cup Noodles Factory where you can select your own ingredients and customize a cup design. Eat it yourself or make it a gift for a friend, the choice is yours!

Cup Noodle Museum

Cup Noodle Museum

Read more
Momofuku Ando Cup Noodle Museum
Japan is well known for its world class food. Tokyo’s refined culinary scene has garnered it more Michelin stars than any other city in the world.…

CupNoodles Museum Osaka Ikeda

4.5

682 Reviews

Osaka Ikedashi Masumichou 8-25

0727523484

9:30-16:30(Last entry15:30)

View All

Go here

Suntory Yamazaki Distillery

Japanese whisky is becoming more and more renowned in international circles for its great quality and taste. On the border between Osaka and Kyoto is Suntory Yamazaki Distillery. This is THE place to visit if you are interested in the roots of the Japanese whisky, Yamazaki. The facility offers guided tours every day where visitors can view the whole production area, including the maturation warehouse.

Due to its immense popularity, booking is essential for this tour.

Yamazaki Whisky Museum

4.5

492 Reviews

Osaka Mishimagunshimamotochou Yamazaki 5-2-1

0759621423

10:00-16:45(Last entry16:30)

View All

Go here

Japanese loves Onsen and they have in-house Onsen in the mid of the town, too. It’s the best place to recover from the fatigue of your journey.

Spa world Shinsekai

If you’re worn out from travel or jet lag you need to head to Spa world Shinsekai. The basic idea is: Onsen from around the world, and they are not kidding. The Asian inspired baths include Japanese outdoor baths and Cypress baths, and if you’re in the mood for something more exotic, there are also Bali and Persia inspired rooms. On the European floor take a mini-vacation to Ancient Greece and Rome, Italian Grotto’s and Finnish saunas. If you’re traveling with kids, they won’t be left out of the fun as there are gigantic swimming pools with many different slides for their enjoyment (and yours). Spa world also features a hotel with western and Japanese style rooms.

Spa world Shinsekai

SpaWorld Onsen hot springs resort

4.0

836 Reviews

Osaka Osakashi Naniwa-ku Ebisuhigashi 3-4-24

0666310001

10:00-8:45 the next day (8:4…

View All

Go here

Solaniwa Onsen

Forming part of the Osaka Bay Tower Complex, the Solaniwa Onsen is a newly opened hot spring theme park inspired by the Azuchi Momoyama era. This was a period of not only unification in Japan, but also of rapid modernization, where Japan went from the medieval era to an early modern one.

Solaniwa Onsen

The Onsen features open air springs flowing directly from the source and terrace baths overlooking the gardens. Experience a body scrub, massage and beauty treatment or indulge during a private Onsen with your very own Japanese garden. But be advised, most Japanese hot springs will deny entry to visitors with tattoos.

Solaniwa Onsen Helloween

Soraniwa Onsen OSAKA BAY TOWER

4.0

3 Reviews

Osaka Osaka-shi Minato-ku Benten1-2-3

0676705126

View All

Go here

From sprawling underground malls, to beautiful bookstores, to niche shopping, Osaka has it all. Read on to find out where you want to spend the big bucks.

Enjoy a relaxing and inviting atmosphere in which you can easily spend hours exploring the super malls and commercial complex.

Osaka Station

Extensively renovated and reopened in 2011, Osaka Station City is now one of Japan’s most beautiful railway stations. It’s topped by a glass roof that spans the railway tracks and features two soaring buildings that are connected by the Toki no Hiroba (Time and Space Plaza). Watch the trains coming and going or get some retail therapy in the stores of the North and South Gate Buildings.

Osaka Station

With multiple routes between the two buildings, you have access to an absurd amount of specialty stores (LOFT, Muji, BEAMS, Adidas, Disney Store, etc.), a department store, a cinema complex, sports gym, hotel, Pokemon Center, restaurants, and even a wedding hall if you're in the spirit. It’s a great place to have fun, and a wonderful option for a rainy day.

Osaka Station

Osaka

Osaka

View All

Go here

Umeda underground

The Umeda area is home to seven different stations, which are connected through a labyrinth of underground walkways that have become known as the ‘dungeon’. It’s confusing even for locals, with countless escalators connecting the various levels and a maze-like network of paths. But if you’re not in a hurry to catch a train, it’s a great place to explore, with plenty of shops and eateries to discover along the way.

Umeda underground

Osaka-Umeda(Hanshin Line)

Osaka

View All

Go here

Hirakata T-Site

Situated a minute’s walk from Hirakata Station you'll find Hirakata T-Site, a glass-walled commercial complex that consists of nearly 40 specialty stores, including a Tsutaya bookstore. The highlight of this complex are its impeccable, third-floor bookshelves that cover the wall from floor to ceiling and are reminiscent of the gigantic palace library in the Disney movie ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Not sure which one of the 150,000 books and magazines you should buy? Head to the Starbucks to read before you decide.

HIRAKATA T-SITE

Osaka Hirakatashi Okahigashichou 12-2

0728615700

7:00-23:00*Opening hours dif…

View All

Go here

So, you’ve heard of Akihabara and Harajuku in Tokyo. But what about Denden Town, which has become the hub for Otaku culture, anime and electronics in Osaka? How about Amerikamura for hip-stars? Let’s check these unique shops, too.

Denden Town

Located in the Nipponbashi district, ‘Denden Town’ loosely translates as ‘electronic town’ and is packed with hobbyist shops, manga stores and gaming venues.

Denden Town

If you haven’t gone to an arcade in Japan, here is your perfect opportunity, and definitely don’t miss out on the rhythm game ‘experts’ tapping at screens with seemingly impossible speed. Discover quirky specialty shops or grab a drink at one of the Akihabara style maid cafes.

Denden Town

Read more
Denden Town in Osaka
Video game and anime fans all know about Akihabara in Tokyo, a district packed full of shops dedicated to games, electronics, and…

Nipponbashi Denden Town

Osaka Osakashi Naniwa-ku Nippombashi 3

0666440260

View All

Go here

Amerikamura

Osaka’s answer to Harajuku in Tokyo, enjoy a parade of unique fashion in Amerikamura, the main hub of youth fashion culture in the city. Its name translates as ‘American Village’ as many of its original stores sold imported western goods.

Amerikamura

But today it’s packed with fashion from across the globe in subcultures that include streetwear, Lolita and punk, as well as being home to plenty of vintage clothing shops. The nightlife is also great, so if you have time you should stick around!

Amerikamura

Read more
Amerikamura in Osaka
Amerikamura, or “Amemura”as it is more often called, is Osaka’s answer to Harajuku in Tokyo, …

Americamura

Osaka Osakashi Chuou-ku Nishishinsaibashi

Depends on establishment

View All

Go here

‘Enjoy day to day life to the fullest’ is the typical philosophy in Osaka so make sure to partake while you are here by catching a comedy show or eating your fill of traditional food and just taking in the atmosphere!